Optimal number of matings in two aphidophagous ladybirds

Abstract

Abstract. 1. The present study was designed to identify the optimal number of matings required for maximum fecundity and egg viability in two aphidophagous ladybirds, Cheilomenes sexmaculata and Propylea dissecta.2. For this purpose, ladybirds were subjected to different numbers of matings and the reproductive responses were recorded thereafter.3. The Gompertz model was used to draw asymptotic graphs for fecundity and per cent egg viability in both ladybird species. Ninety‐five per cent and 50% of maximum theoretical fecundity and per cent egg viability were predicted from the model.4. Ninety‐five per cent maximum theoretical fecundity was obtained after 13.25 and 12.95 matings in C. sexmaculata and P. dissecta, respectively; and 8.95 and 11.25 matings were required for 95% maximum theoretical per cent egg viability in C. sexmaculata and P. dissecta, respectively.5. The results of these experiments clearly support the existence of an optimal number of matings in these two ladybird species leading to maximum adult fitness.